Filing device



H. A. WAR DY FILING DEVICE Nov. 5, 1940.

Original Filed June '7, 1937 4 Sheets-Sheet l Nov. 5, 1940. H. AWARDY 2,220,562

FILING DEVICE Original Filed June 7, 1937 4 Sheets-Sheet 2 H. A. WARDY Nov. 5, 1940.

FILING DEVICE Original Filed June 7, 1957 4 Shee'lZs-Sheerl 5 FILING DEVICE Original Filed June '7, 1937 4 Sheets-Sheet 4 llllllll/llllllhw;v lll1llllllllllllllh Patented Nov. 5, 1940 UNITED STATES PATENTv OFFICE 2,220,562 n FILING DEVICE Application June 7, 1937, Serial No. 146,885 Renewed March`27, 1940 19 Claims.

This invention relates to a device for handling or containing papers, ledger sheets, cards, etc., and relates more particularly to an improved iiling device. A general object of this invention is to provide a practical, effective, device for filing papers, ledger sheets, etc. that may be easily and quickly enlarged or reduced in capacity.

Another object of this invention is to provide a iiling device in which the cards, papers, or

sheets are contained in a systematic manner in holders that normally hold the papers in compact packs and that are operable to raise the papers to positions where their identifying means are all plainly visible and the papers are easily l5 removable.

Another object of this invention is to provide a filing device of the character mentioned embodying a sectional container or box in which the box sections may be added or removed at will to increase or decrease the capacity of the device.

Another object of this invention is to provide a filing device of the character mentioned in which each insertable and removable section of the container or box embodies a holder of the character referred to above whereby the addition of a section to the box provides the device with an additional card or paper holder for carrying an additional group or pack of cards or papers.

Another object of this invention is to provide a filing device of the character mentioned embodying novel and particularly effective means for connecting the sections of the container or box to form a dependable, rigid and symmetrical assembly or box structure.

Another object of this invention is to provide a filing device of the character mentioned in which the cards, folders, or papers may be individually or collectively removed from the holders and restored to their properly centered and located positions in the holders at any time, without the manipulation of mechanical parts, or the like.

Another object of this invention is to provide a filing device of the character mentioned in which the holders embody lifting elements for raising the cards or papers to positions where they are in stepped relation with their upper portions readily visible and accessible, which lifting elements retain the papers in this stepped relation until they are deliberately restored to their compact,

normal relation.

Another object of this invention is to provide a filing device of the character mentioned in which the cards, folders or papers are guided and supported in the holders in such a manner that (Cl. 12S-16.1)

they automatically assume positions to be raised bythe lifting elements when the holders are swung back and the lifting elements are raised.

A further object of this invention is to provide 2 filing device of the character mentioned em- 5 bodying novel means for automatically latching the lifting elements in their raised positions where the upper portions of the identifying means of the cards, papers, or folders ar'e all plainly visible and freely accessible. 10

The various objects and features of my invention will be fully understood from'the following detailed description of a typical, preferred form and application of the invention, throughout which description reference is made to the ac- 15 companying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 is a side elevation of the device provided by this invention showing the packs of papers or folders in their normal down positions. Fig. 2 is a front elevation of the device illus- 20 trated in Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a front elevation of a group or pack of papers or folders in a stepped or graduated relation. Fig. 4 is an edge or side elevation of one of the folders. Fig. 5 is an enlarged vertical detailed sectional view of the 25k front section of the container or box of the invention. Fig. 6 is a fragmentary vertical detailed sectional view taken as indicated by line 6 6 on Fig. 5. s Fig. 7 is a fragmentary horizontal detailed sectional view taken as indicated by line 30 l-T on Fig. 5. Fig. 8 is a side elevation of the rear. section of the box structure. Fig. 9 is'a fragmentary elevation of the inner end of the rear section of the box structure. Fig. 10 is a side elevation of one oi' the intermediate sections 35 showing the lifting element in its down or normal position. Fig. 11 is a reduced front elevation of one of the intermediate sections. Fig. 12 is a fragmentary front elevation of one of the intermediate sections with its lifting element in 40 .the elevated position. Fig. 13 is an enlarged fragmentary vertical sectional View taken as indicated by line l3--l3 on Fig. 10. Figs. 14 and 15 are enlarged fragmentary horizontal detailed sectional views taken as indicated by lines lt-M 45 and |5-I5, respectively, on Fig. 11. Fig. 16 is a fragmentary vertical detailed sectional View of the device illustrating a portion of the folders of the foremost group or pack in their elevated positions, with one of the elevated folders open and 50 showing the remaining folders of the foremost pack in their down positions. Fig. 1'7 is an enlarged fragmentary horizontal detailed sectional View taken as indicated by line ll-l'l on Fig. 1 illustrating the manner of employing the key to 55 turn one of the latches. Fig. 18 is a fragmentary edge or side elevation of one of the folder or card holding assemblies embodying an alternative structure and Fig. 19 is a reduced horizontal detailed sectional view taken as indicated by line I9-I9 on Fig. 18.

The present invention may be embodied in forms for handling papers, cards, folders, etc., of various sizes and kinds and in forms for use in cabinets and filing systems of various natures. In the following detailed description I will describe typical embodiments of the invention, itY

being understood that the invention is not to be construed as limited or restricted to the specific forms or applications about to be described, but that it is to be taken as including any features or modifications that may fall within the scope of the claims.

The device of the present invention illustrated in Figs. 1 to 1'7 inclusive includes, generally two end sections 10,-a plurality of intermediate sections II, means i2 for releasably connecting the sections I0 and II to constitute a box structure, packs P of papers, cards, or folders I3, and holders I4 on the intermediatebox sections II having means I5 for raising the papers or folders I3 to positions where they are in visible and. accessible stepped relation.

The end sections I3 constitute the ends of the container, box or drawer for carrying the sheets or papers. The end sections I0 are formed of sheet metal or the like and may be identical with the exception of certain parts of the connecting means I2 which are incorporated in them. Each end section I0 includes sides I5, an outer end II and a bottom IB; The sides IE5 and the ends Il are substantially vertical and the bottoms I8 are substantially horizontal. In practice the sides I6, the ends I'I and the bottoms I8 of the sections IIJ may be formed of single integral sheets of metal. The end sections Ill further include inner walls I 9 which slope or incline upwardly and outwardly from the inner edges of the bottoms I8 to the upper edges of the ends II. The inner walls I9 have substantially vertical side parts 20 spaced inwardly from the sides I6. The walls I9 may have foot iianges 2l sweated, welded, or otherwise xed to the upper surfaces of the bottoms I3. Inwardly and downwardly turned flanges 22 extend along the upper edges of the sides I6 and the ends I'I andl complementary flanges 23 extend along the upper edges of the inner walls I9 and their side parts 2U. The flanges 22 and 23 constitute lapped joints and may be sweated, welded, riveted, or otherwise secured together.

The end sections II! are preferably provided with hand'grips or similar means to facilitate the handling of the device. In the preferred arrangement illustrated openings 24 are provided in the ends I'I of the sections I Il and are adapted to receive the users hands when he lifts the device. Upwardly and inwardly curved lips 25 are provided along the upper Walls of the openings 24 to be engaged by the users hands inserted in the openings. Horizontal drawer guides 26 may be provided on the outer surfaces of the sides I6. If desired card holders 2l may be provided on one or both of the sections IB. The holders 21 may be provided on the ends I'I above the openings 24 and are adapted to receive classifying or identifying cards or the like.

The intermediate sections II are assembled between the end sections I0 and the sections I0 and II are all connected together by the means wardly to join the walls 39.

I2 to form a rigid container or box. The sections II carry or embody the holders I4 and in accordance with the invention the sections II may be added to or removed from the device to increase or reduce its capacity or size as found necessary. Accordingly, the device may embody one or more holder sections II. In the present case it will be assumed that the device embodies a plurality of sections II. The sections II are preferably identical and may be formed of sheet metal or the like.

Eachsection II includes two spaced substan tially vertical sides 28 and a substantially horizontal bottom 29. The sides 28 include outer walls 30 and inner walls 3| in spaced apart relation. The bottoms 29 are preferably laminated or of two-ply construction. In the form of the invention illustrated in the drawings the outer walls 30 of the sides 28 are integral with the outer or lower members 32 of the bottoms 29 and the inner Walls 3l of the sides 28-are integral with the inner members 33a of the bottoms. The outer and'inner walls 30 and 3i of the sides 28 may have suitable flush lapped joints 34 extending along their upper edges. The joints 34 preferably close the upper ends of the spaces between the walls 30'and 3I and the flanges or lapped parts of the joints may be welded together. In accordance with the invention the inner walls 3I of the sides 28 have downwardly and inwardly inclined lower portions 3|2L to locate or center the cards, papers, or folders I3, as will be hereinafter described.

The sides 28 of the sections II preferably have internal reinforcing members. These reinforcing members each have upper and lower portions 35 kand 35, respectively, lying against the inner surface of the outer wall 30 and an intermediate portion 31 lying against the inner surface of the inner wall 3I. The lower portions 3B of the reinforcing members have inturned foot flanges 38 lying against the upper surfaces of the bottom members 32. The outer layers or members 32 of the bottoms 29-have their end portions 32a bent downwardly and then horizontallyA out- This shaping or bending of the bottom walls 32 provides substantially rectangular openings 33 defined by the portions 32a,vthe lower portions of the outer walls 30 and the foot flanges 38 and materially reinforces thecorner parts of the U-shaped sections II. The reinforcing portions 35, 36 and 31 and the foot flanges 38 may be welded or otherwise xed to the internal surfaces of the walls 3S and 3I and the members 32, respectively. The sections II `just described constitute simple and inexpensive structures that are small and compact and that are inexpensive to manufacture.

The end sections I0 and the intermediate sections. II are shaped and proportioned to be assembled and connected together by the means I2 to form a drawer, tray or box. The end sections `II'I constructed `as above described are open topped structures having open inner ends and the intermediate sections II are substantially .U-shaped structures having their tops and both ends open. The sections IIJ and I I are adapted to be arranged or aligned with their respective sides I5` and 30 in alignment and with the open ends of the end sections I0 facing inwardly or toward one another. The sections I0 and II are proportioned so that their sides I6 and 30 are in substantially the same Vertical planes and so that their upper edges are in a common horizontal plane when the sections are arranged or aligned as above described.

The means I2 are provided to connect the sections ID and II together in the relationship just described to form a tray or box. The means I2 are such that the sections I and II may be disconnected at any time and additional intermediate sections I I may be interposed in the assembly when necessary. The means I2 include or provide openings 40 in the sides 28 of the intermediate sections I I. The openings 40 are prefer- -ably in the upper portions of the sides 28 and are dened by the inner Walls 3I, the joints 34, the portions 35, and shoulders 4I at the lower ends of the portions 35. The openings 40 are open at the forward edges of the sides 28. The connecting means I 2 further include parts or tongues 42 projecting from the rear edges of the section sides 28 to cooperate with the openings 4D of the adjacent sections. The tongues 42 may each include two spaced members 43 secured to the opposing walls of the openings 40 extending into the openings 48 distances less than one half the depth of the openings and projecting outwardly beyond the rear edges of the sides 28, The outer edge portions of the tongue members 43 are preferably rounded or curved inwardly toward one another so that the tongues 42 present blunt outer edges shaped to be easily inserted in the openings 40. The tongues 42 are proportioned to rather accurately t the openings 49 and their members 43 may be flexible to some extent to frictionally bear against the walls of the openings 40. The cooperation of the tongues 42 with the openings 40 holds the sides 28 of the sections II in proper alignment and resist relative lateral and vertical movement between the sides 28 of the adjacent sections.

The means I2 further include tongue and socket connections between the bottoms 29 of the sections II. Tongues 44 project rearwardly beyond the rear edge of the bottom 29 of each section Il. The tongues 44 may be formed of channel-shaped stock and have portions secured in the openings 33. The tongues 44 may b e secured to the walls of the openings 33 by welding or the like. In the preferred construction the I tongues 44 project into the openings 33 distances less than one half the depth of the openings. The projecting portions of the tongues 44 are adapted to be received in the openings 33 in the bottoms 29 of the adjacent sections II. It will be apparent that when the sections II are .arranged in edge to edge relation with their tongues 42 fitting the openings 4l) of adjacent sections, the tongues 44 may iit the openings 33 in the adjacent sections. The cooperation of the tongues 44 with the openings 33 assists in preventing undesirable relative vertical and lateral movement between the lower portions of the adjacent sections I I.

The releasable connecting means I2 include tongue and socket connections between the endmost sections II and the end sections Il). Tongues 45 project rearwardly from the sides I6 of the front end section I0 to cooperate with the openings 4l) in the foremost section II.. The tongues 45 m-ay be similar to the above-described tongues 42 `and project rearwardly from t-he rear edges of the walls I6. The front end section I0 is provided with tongues 46 projecting rearwardly to cooperate with the openings 33 in the foremost section II. The tongues 46 may be similar to the above described tongues 44 and may be constructed of channel-shaped stock. The tongues 45 may be Welded or otherwise secured to the bottom I8 and the adjacent parts of the wall I9 of the front end section I0. Openings 41 are provided in the forward edges of the sides I6 of the rear end section Ill to receive the tongues 42 of the rearmost section II. The openings 4l may occur between the sides I6 .and the side portions 20 of the inner wall I9. Openings 48 are provided in the forward and lower edge portion of the inner wall I9 of the rear end section IIl to receive the tongues 44 of the rearmost section I I. It will be apparent how the tongues 45 and 46 of the front end section I0 cooperating with the openings 40 and 33 of the foremost section II connect these sections against relative lateral and vertical displacement. In a similar manner the tongues 42 and 44 of the rear section II cooperating with the openings 41 and 48 of the rear end section I Il :connect these sections against relative lateral and vertical displacement.

The connecting means I2 for connecting together the several sections l0 and II further include latches for releasably securing together the adjacent sections of the tray or bo'X. A latch 49 is pivoted on the outer surface of each side 28 of each section I I. The latches 49 may be pivotally supported by pins 5l] projecting from the sides 28. The latches 49 are adapted to be swung to positions where they project beyond the rear edges of the sides 28. The rear portions oi the latches 49 are provided with downwardly facing notches 5|. A headed pin 52 is provided on the outer surface of each wall 30 of each section II. The pins 52 are located adjacent the forward edges of the walls 39. The latches 49 and the pins 52 are related so that the not-ches 5I receive the pins 52 when the latches are swung to their down or substantially horizontal positions. The cooperation of the pins 52 with the notches 5I eifectively connects the sections II against relative axial or longitudinal separation.

Latches 53 are provided on the sides I6 of the front end section I9. The latches 53` may be pivotally supported by pins 54 projecting from the sides I5.' The latches 53 are adapted to project rearwardly beyond the rear edges of the sides I 6 and their rear portions have downwardly facing notches 55 for cooperating with the pins 52 on the foremost section I I. The latches 53 cooperating with the pins 52 of the foremost section I I effectively connect the end section Il! with the foremost section II. The rear end section l0 is releasably connected with the rearmost section II. Pins 56 project from the sides i6 of the rear end section I0 adjacent the forward edges of the sides. The pins 55 are adapted to be received in the notches 5I of the latches 49 on the rearmost section II. An opening 57 is provided in each latch 49 and 53. The openings 57 are adapted to receive a tine 58 of a key 59. As illustrated in Fig. 17 of the drawings the double tined key 59 is adapted to be arranged with one of its tines 58 against an edge of a latch 49 and with Anotches 5l and 55 cooperate with the pins 52 and 56 respectively, to connect the sections together to form a rigid tray or boX structure. It is preferred to position the latches 49 and 53 and the pins 52 and 55 so that the latches are horizontally aligned with the guides26 when thelatches are in their down or operative positions. The guides 2E are adapted to protect the latches and the latch pins against injury in the event that the device is struck or brought into accidental engagement with a stationary object. Further the latches and latch pins positioned as just described do not interferewith movement of the device or box in the event that the device is slidably arranged in a cabinet or the like where the guides 26 operate as drawer guides.

In accordance with the broader aspects of the invention cards, papers, ledger sheets, folders, files and the like of various natures may be used or handled in the device. In the typical application of the invention illustrated in the drawings the device is disclosed handling or containing folders I3 for holding ledger sheets, bills, etc. A pack P of folders I3 may be arranged in each section I I. Each folder I3 may be constructed of a single sheet of paper, cardboard, or the like, folded transversely between its ends to have a front 60 and a back 6I The folders I3 are preferably constructed so that their backs SI project upwardly beyond the upper edges of their fronts and the upwardly projecting portions SIa of the folder backs 5I may be employed as tabs for carrying identifying or classifying data. It is to be understood that a plurality of ledger sheets or papers of other characters may be arranged in each folder I3 to project beyond the upper edge of its front 60 to have their identifying tabs, if any, visible at the upper end of the folder,

In accordance with the invention the folders i3 have laterally projecting tabs or projections E2 at their opposite sides or vertical edges. In the preferred construction both the fronts 60 and the backs 6I of the folders I3 have projections 62 and the projections 62 on the back and the front of a folder I3 are identical. The projections 62 may be integral with the folders I3 and may extend downwardly from the upper edges of the fronts '6G and the backs 6I The lower ends of the projections 62 constitute downwardly facing shoulders 63 on the folders I3 engageable by the lifting means I5 of the holders I4. The shoulders 63 of the adjacent folders I3 of each pack P are ar-4 ranged in a stepped or graduated series. The shoulders 33 of the foremost folder I3 of a pack P are spaced above the shoulders 63 of the second to the foremost folder I3 and the shoulders 63 of the second to the foremost folder I3 is spaced above the shoulders 63 of the third to the foremost folder and so on, this stepped relationship continuing throughout the plurality of folders of the pack. The several packs P of folders I3 may be identical although, of course, the packs P may embody different numbers of folders I3 and may have identifying or classifying means of different characters.

'Ihe holders I4 are permanently secured to the sections II to constitute parts or elements of the removable and insertable sections of the tray or box structure. The holders I4 are provided to support or hold the folders I3 in upright or sloping positions and carry or embody the means E5 for lifting the folders I3 to positions where the folders in a pack P are in stepped relation so that the upper edges or the identifying portions fila of the folders or the identifying means of the folders contents are plainly visible and making the folders and their contents readily accessible for removal, sorting, inspection, etc.

In the embodiment of the invention disclosed in the drawings. the holders I4 are plate-like members formed ofv cardboard, fiber board, sheet metal, or the like. The holders I4 project upwardly or substantially vertically from the rear edges of the section bottoms 29. In practice the holders I4 may project a substantial distance beyond the upper edges of the sections II. The vertical edges of the holders I4 have suitable clearance with the walls 3I of the sections I I and their lower portions 64 are inclined downwardly and inwardly to have proper clearance with the wall portions 3Ia. The holders I4 are hinged to the bottoms 29 of the sections I I so that they may be swung forwardly and rearwardly to facilitate the use of the packs P of folders I3. Suitable hinges B5 hingedly connect the lower edges of the holders I4 with the rear edge portions of the bottoms 29. In practice there may be two spaced hinges 35 connecting each holder I4 with the bottom 29 of its respective section I I. The rear and forward edges of the bottoms 29 may be notched out at 56 to receive the hinges and the projecting portions of the hinges 65 on the adjacent sections I-I. Rearwardly projecting flanges GI may extend along the vertical edges of the holders I4 to lend rigidity to the holders.

A pack P of folders I3 may be arranged in each section II to have the lower edges of the folders rest on the bottom 29. rIhe lower corners of the folders I3 are adapted to cooperate with the inclined portions 3 Ia of the walls 3 I. The cooperation of the corners of the folders I3 with the inclined wall portions 3la locates or centers the folders I3 between the walls 3I. The folders I3 may project upwardly beyond the upper edges of the box sections I I as illustrated in'the drawings. The packs P of papers orl folders I3 are confined between the holders i4 of the adjacent sections I I and the holders I4 may be hinged or swung to positions to facilitate the examination and use of thefolders or their contents. The row of holders I4 and their packs P may normally be inclined upwardly and rearwardly with the rearmost-holder I4 resting against the inclined wall I9 of the rear end section I 0. When it is desired to make the folders I3 in a section II accessible the holder or holders I4 in front of that section I I may be hinged forwardly so that the foremost pack P rests upon the inclined wall I9 of that front end section Ill. This leaves a substantial space in front of the pack P to be examined, this space being wide at its upper end and relatively narrow at its lower end, so that the lower edges of the folders I3 are confined between the adjacent holders I4 whereby the folders I3 cannot slip or fall.'

The means I5 are associated with or incorporated in the holders I4 and are operable to elevate the packs P of folders I3 in the sections II to assume stepped or graduated positions where the upper edges or the identifying parts of the folders or their contents are all visible and accessible. A lifting means I5 is provided on each holder I4 and the several lifting means may be identical. Each means I5 includes a lifting element 68 shiftable vertically on a holder I4. The lifting elements 68 may be in the form of plates of fiber board, metal, or the like, and may be of the same size and of the same general shape as the holders I4. In the preferred construction the lifting elements 68 are arranged on the forward faces of the holders I4. The lower edges of the lifting elements 68 may normally rest on the bottoms 29 of the sections II. The side or vertical edges of the elements 68 have suitable clearance with the walls 3l and have inclined lower portions f'which clear the inclined wall portions 3|a.

Means is provided for guiding the lifting elements 68 for vertical or longitudinal movementl on the holders I4. The means for guiding the elements 68 include spaced vertical or longitudinal slots 89 in the holders I4. In practice there may be two slots 68 in each holder I4 adjacent its opposite longitudinal edges. The portions 10 of the holders I4 surrounding or adjacent the slots 8S are indented or depressed. Pins 1| are fixed to the lifting elements 68 and slidably or shiftably cooperate with the slots 69. The pins 1| may be riveted to the elements 68 and their forward ends are preferably flattened or spun to be flush with the forward surfaces of the lifting elements so that they do not interfere with the papers or folders I3, Comparatively large heads 12 are provided on the pins 1| to cooperate with the surfaces of the depressed portions 18 of the holders I4. The heads 12 cooperating with the depressed surfaces of the holders I4 serve to hold the elements 68 against detachment or separation from the holders. The outer surfaces of the pin heads 12 are ush with or inset from the major rear surfaces of the holders I4 so that they do not interfere with the papers or i3 in the adjacent sections II.

It is preferred to provide a vertical or longitudinal slot 13 in each lifting element 68. The slots 13 are parallel with the slots 69 and are substantially equally spaced between the longitudinal edges of the elements 68. The portions i4 of the elements I5 surrounding or adjacent ie slots 13 are preferably depressed or indented. Pins 15 are fixed to the holders I4 and shiftably cooperate with or project into the slo-ts 13. There is one pin I5 on each holder I4. The rear ends of the pins 15 may be riveted over or spun in such a manner that they are flush with the rear surfaces of the holders. Heads 16 are provided on the forward ends of the pins 15 to cooperate with the surfaces of the depressed portions 14 of 'the elements 68 to assist in preventing separation of the elements 88 from the holders I4. The forward ends or surfaces of the heads 16 are ush with or below the major forward surfaces of the lifting elements 68. The Vpins 1| are provided on the lower portions of the lifting elements 68 whereas the pins 15 are provided on the upper portions of the holders I4. It will be apparent how the spaced pins 1| and 15 cooperating with their respective slots 89 and 13 guide the lifting elements 68 for vertical or longitudinal movement cn the holders |4 and limit or prevent lateral rocking, pivoting, etc. of the elements with respect to the holders. The limer surfaces of the depressed portions 10 and 14 constitute spaced longitudinal with the inner surfaces of the elements 68 and the holders I4, respectively, to assure the vertical movement of the elements on the holders I4 with a minimum of friction and effort.

The invention provides novel means for releasably latching the lifting elements 68 in their raised positions. A lateral notch 11 communicates with the lower end of each slot 13. The notches 11 may have substantially horizontal upper and lower walls. The notches 11 are adapted to receive the pins 15 when the elements 68 are raised to retain or assist in retaining the elements in their raised positions. In accordance with the invention the lifting elements 68 are automatically shifted in a lateral direction when they reach their raised positions .tov effect folders tracks or ridges cooperatingA the engagement of the notches 11 with the pins 15. Lateral notches 18 communicate with the upper ends of the slots 68 to receive the pins 1|. The lower walls of the notches 18 may be slightly concave so that the pins may seat in the notches to releasably hold the elements 68 in their raised positions. The upper walls of the notches 18 are joined or connected with the walls of the slots 89 by curved or inclined walls that constitute cam faces 19. When an element 68 is raised or moved upwardly and approaches the limit of its movement the pins 1| cooperate with the cam faces 19. This cooperation effects the lateral shifting of the element 68 with respect to its holder I4 to move the pin 'i5 into the notch 11 and to bring the pins 1I into the notches 18. When the user releases his hold upon the element 68 the pins 'II cooperate with the lower walls of the notches 18 and the pin 15 cooperates with the lower wall of the notch 11 to latch or retain the element 68 0.

I5 further ini tical edges and adjacent their lower ends. The I brackets 88 have forwardly projecting fingers or hooks 8|. The hooks 8| may be substantially horizontal or normal to the forward faces of the elements 68 and are provided at their outer ends with upturned end parts 82. The distance from the end parts 82 to the forward faces of the elements 68 is substantially equal to the distance between the forward face of an element 68 and the rear surface of the holder I4 of an adjacent section II. The hooks 8| are positioned to be spaced some distance below the lowermost shoulders 63 to allow the folders I3 to be swung forwardly or rearwardly between positions where they rest on the elements' 68 and positions where `they rest on the holders I4 of the adjacent sections II without the interference of their shoulciersv 83 with the hooks 8| or the parts 82. The hooks 8| may be reinforced by webs 83 on the brackets `8|).

When it is'desired to raise a pack P of folders I3 for inspection or use the pack is first laid rearwardly against the upwardly and rearwardlyinclined lifting element 88 so that the shoulders63 of the folders are located above the hooks 8|. The element 88 is then raised to the position where the pins 1| are received in the notches 18 and the pin 15 is received in the notch 11, as described abo-ve. During this upward movement of the elementA 63 the hooks 8| successively come into lifting engagement withv the stepped shoulders 63 of the folders. Because of the graduated or stepped relation of the shoulders 83 the hooks 8| oper-ate to move thev folders to be in a graduated or stepped series with their tab portions or identifying portions 6|sstepped one above the other, the portion 6|a of the rearrnost folder I3 being at the upper end of the series. The shoulders 63 cooperating with the hooks 8| serve to support the folders |3 in their raised positions.

It is preferred to provide identifying 'or classifying tabs 85 on the lifting elements 68 tofacili'# tate the location of the several groups P of-folders I3. The tabs 85 maybe formed of metal 4or the like and may be riveted or otherwisepxed to the upper edge portions of the elements 68'.v .Win-'- dow openings 86 may be provided in the tabs .85

,to identify the groups or yelements 38 may be conveniently grasped for the purpose of raising the elements. c It is believed that the utility and practicability of the filing deviceprovided by the present invention will be readily understood from the foregoing detailed description. The sections I and I I may be assembled and connected together as described above, to constitute a drawer or bex for carrying the papers or folders I 3. It will be readily understood how the tonguesl of the sections may be inserted `in the openings of the adjacent sections and how the latches 49 and v53 may be employed to latch the several sections together to constitute a rigid boX structure. In this connection it is to be noted that the device may be assembled to have any desired or necessary number of intermediate sections II and that additional sections I l may be easily and quickly added to the device from time to time. As the sections II embody the holders I4 and their card or flle lifting means I5 vthe addition of the sections II to the structure provides the device with additional folder or l'e handling means. With the lifting elements 38 in their down or normal positions the packs P of folders I3 are contained in the device in compact groups. The tabs 85 on the elements 38 constitute accessible and convenient means for hinging or swinging the elements and the holders I4 between positions such as illustrated in Fig. 1 of the drawings and positions where they are inclinedforwardly and upwardly. The tabs 85 may carry suitable identifying indicia for identifying the packs P of folders I 3 in the several sections I I.

When it is desired to raise the files or folders i 3 of a pack P to elevated positions where they are all plainly visible and easily accessible it is only necessary to engage the tab 85 of the proper lifting element E8 and then lift the element. At the end of this upward movement the pins 'iI and 'F5 are automatically moved into their notches l1 and 'I8 to latch the element 68 in its up position. Asdescribed above, upward movement of an element 68 effects the elevation of the several folders I3 of the pack P by reason of the engagement of the hooks 8l with the shoulders 63. The lifting of an element B8 to its raised position brings the folders `I3 of the pack P to positions where their identifying portions 5Ia are stepped one above the other and are all plainly visible and easily accessible.

It is to be particularly noted that the folders I3 or their contents, or both, may be easily removed from the device at any time and quickly restored to their proper positions. In actual use the folders I3 may be successively removed from the hooks 8| beginning at the foremost folder and after their contents have been examined or after the postings have been made the foldersl may be dropped into the sections I I to lie against the holder I4 of the adjacent section and assume forwardly and upwardly inclined positions. When the folders I3 are dropped in` this manner they strike the bottom 29 of the section II and tip or fall forwardly against the inclined holder I4 of the adjacent section II. The section bottom 29, the holder I 4 of the section II containing the folders I3 and the holder I4 of the adjacent section I.I .lock or. confine the lower edges of the folders I3 so that they cannot slip or fall from their tilted .positions against the adjacent holder. 'Ihe inclined-wall portions 3 Ia are engaged by the lower corners of the folders as the folders are dropped and operate to locate or center the folders laterally of the section I I. The dropped folders I3 confined at their lower edges and supported as just described, are yin position for re-engagement by the hooks 8I after lowering of the element S8 and after rearward tilting of the folders. In this connection it is to be observed that the hooks 8l are positioned so that they do not interfere with the lowered or dropped folders I3 when the folders are Atilted rearwardly to lie against the element 68. It is important to note that it is unnecessary to manually straighten or arrange the folders I3 for re-engagement by the hooks 3|. If it is desired to retain one of the folders I3 in an open condition when supported on the hooks V8| the front 60 of the folder is raised slightly to disengage its shoulders 63 from the .hooks 8| and is then allowed to drop or fall to the open position where it rests against the adjacent holder I4 or the folders I3 resting on said holder. Fig. 16 of the drawings illustrates one of the folders I3 in this open elevated position. It will be observed that a folder held open in this manner has its interior freely accessible for the removal and restoration of the papers or contents. When it is desired to remove the opened folder I3 from the hooks SI it is only necessary to raise the back 6I of the folder to disengage its shoulders 63 from the hooks 8I Aand then allow the folder to drop to be centered and located in the section II as described above.

To return a lifting element 68 to its down or normal position a slight lateral movement is imparted to the element and the element is moved downwardly. This downward movement of the element B8 may be accomplished without interference of the hooks 8| with the folders I3 that may be resting on the bottom 29 of the section II. To condition the folders I3 for further elevation it is only necessary to swing them rearwardly against the element 68 whereupon their shoulders 63 are automatically brought to positions for engagement by the hooks 8 I.

Figs. 18 and 19 illustrate a slightly modified form of the invention intended to facilitate random sorting of the folders I3 when the same are in their elevated positions. In-this form of the invention the lifting hooks 8|a are devoid of the lingers 82 and a frame 90 is hinged to the outer ends. of the two hooks Ela of each lifting element 68a. I will proceed with a description of one frame 90 and its operation, it being understood that this description is applicable to the other holders and lifting means provided with Such frames.

The frame 90 is a substantially U-shaped member having two spaced side parts 9i connected with the outer ends of the hooks BIa by hinges 92'and a transverse partk 93 extending between and connecting the outer ends of the side parts 9|. A stop Siis provided on one of the side parts 9| and is adapted to engage the under side of the adjacent hook SIEL to limit downward pivoting of the frame 93. The stop 94 is operable to limit downward movement of the frame 90 and hold the Aframe in a position where its side parts 9| are horizontal or inclined downwardly and forwardly assuming the holder IIIEL to be in an upwardly and' rearwardly inclined position. Theframe. 90y may be swung to the up position illustrated by the broken lines in Fig. 18.

In using the device provided with the frame 90 the pack of folders f3 may be lifted to their elevated positions by the lifting element 68a, as described above, whereupon the frame 90 may bey swung downwardly from its up position to the downposition illustrated in the full lines in Fig. 18. In sorting and handling the folders I3 the folders may be shifted from the hooks 8|EL to the frame S0, that is, the folders may be moved forwardly to have their shoulders 63 rest on the parts 9i to be supported on the frame. By shifting some of the folders I3 outwardly onto the frame 96 the several folders of the group or pack may be conveniently sorted, opened, removed, etc. If it is desired to hold one of the folders I3 open when in the elevated position the front of the folder is moved forwardly so that its shoulders 63 rest on the frame parts 91 leaving the shoulder 63 of its back 6l on the hooks Bla. This engagement of the shoulders 63 with the parts 9| and the hooks Bla holds the folder in an open position where its contents may be examined, removed and restored to their positions in the folder. When it is desired to return the folders I3 to their normal positions the frame 9G may be folded or swung upwardly and backward and any folders that may remain on the frame 90 are automatically shifted backwardly against the folders remaining on the hooks Bla. When the frame 9G is brought to its up or'retracted position it may serve to retain the folders in their compact relation on the hooks Bla. When the frame 95 is in its retracted or up position illustrated by the broken lines in Fig. 18 it does not interferefwith the manipulation of the lifting element 58a or the holder Ma.

Having described only typical preferred forms and applications of my invention, I do not wish to be limited or restricted to the specific details herein set forth, but wish to reserve to myself any variations or modifications that may appear to those skilled in the art or fall within the scope ofthe following claims.

Having described my invention, I claim:

l. A ling device of the character described including, two end sections, a plurality of intermediate sections adapted to receive packs of sheets and each comprising a bottom and spaced sides, means in the intermediate sections for elevating their respective packs, means for hingedly securing the said elevating means to the bottoms of their respective sections whereby the elevating means may be moved between upwardly and forwardly and upwardly and rearwardly inclined positions, and latch means for releasably rigidly connecting the end sections and the intermediate sections to form an elongate box structure with the end sections at the ends of the structure.

2. A ling device of the character described including, two end sections, a plurality of intermediate sections adapted to receive packs of sheets, means on the intermediate sections for elevating their respective packs, intermeshing parts on the ends of the adjacent sections, and latch means for releasably connecting the end sections and the intermediate sections to form a box structure with the end sections at the ends of the structure.

3. A ling device including two box end sections, a plurality of intermediate sections, a holder on each intermediate section, packs of papers in the intermediate sections held between the holders of their respective sections and the holders of adjacent sections, means associated with the holders for raising the packs, and means latching the several sections together to form a box with the end sections at the ends of the box.

.4. A filing device including two box end sections, a plurality of intermediate sections, a holder on each intermediate section, packs of papers in the intermediate sections held between the holders of their respective sections and the holders of adjacent sections, means associated with the holders for raising the packs, and latch means on each section, the latch means of adjacent sections being cooperable whereby the sections may be connected together to form a box.

5. A filing device including two box end sections, a plurality of intermediate sections, a holder on each intermediate section, packs of papers in the intermediate sections held between the holders of their respective sections and the-,holders of adjacent sections, means associated with the holders for raising the packs, and cooperable latches on the sections for connecting the sections together to form a box with the end sections at its ends, the latches being releasable whereby additional intermediate sections may be connect-` ed in the assembly.

6. A ling device including two box end sections, a plurality of intermediate sections, a holder on each intermediate section, packs of sheets in the intermediate sections held between the holders of their respective sections and the holders of adjacent sections, downwardly facing shoulders on the sheets, the shoulders of the sheets in a pack being in stepped relation, means associated with the holders and cooperable with the shoulders of the sheets in their respective packs to elevate the sheets to positions where they are in stepped relation, and latch means on the sections cooperable to connect the several sections together to form a box with the end sections at the ends of the box.

7. A filing device of the character described including, two end sections, a plurality of intermediate sections, means on the intermediate sections for handling packs of papers, interfitting parts on the adjacent ends of the adjacent intermediate sections operable to prevent relative lateral and vertical movement between the sections, interiitting parts on the adjacent ends of the end sections and the endmost intermediate sections operable to prevent relative lateral and vertical movement between the end sections and said endmost intermediate sections, and releas- I able latch means connecting the several sections against separation to form a box with the end sections at the ends of the box.

8. A device of the character described includstepped relation, parts on the element cooperable with the lower edges of the tabs during upward movement of the element to raise the papers and support the same, and a frame hingedly carried by the said parts and adapted to be engaged by the tabs of papers that are moved forwardly from the said parts to support the papers thus moved forwardly.

9. A device of the character described including a back member, an element shiftable vertically on the back member, a pack of papers, laterally projecting tabs on the papers, the lower edges of the tabs of adjacent papers being in stepped relation, parts on the element cooperable with the lower edges `of the tabsduringupward movement of the element to raise the papers and support the same, and a frame carried by the said parts and adapted to be engaged by the tabs of papers that are moved forwardly from the said parts to support the papers thus moved forwardly, said frame including side members hinged to said parts to project forwardly from the outer ends thereof, and a transverse member extending between and connecting the side members.

10. VIn a 'device ofk the character described, a box section including a bottom, and spaced sides, a holder hinged vto the bottom and projecting upwardly between the sides, and a paper lifting element shiftable vertically on the hinged holder.

11. In a device of the character described, a box section including a bottom, and spaced sides, the sides having openings in corresponding ends, tongues on the other ends of the sides, and a holder hinged to the bottom and projecting upwardly between the sides.

12. In a device of the character described, a boX section including a bottom, and spaced sides, a holder plate hinged to the bottom and projecting upwardly between the sides, the section being adapted to hold a pack of sheets, a lifting element connected to the plate for vertical movement thereon, and parts on the lifting element engageable `with the sheets to raise the sheets.

13. In a device of the character described, a box section including a bottom, and spaced sides, a pack of sheets in the box section having downwardly facing shoulders in stepped relation, a holder hinged to the bottom and projecting upwardly between the sides, a lifting element 'shiftable on the holder, and parts on the element cooperable with the shoulders to raise the sheets.

14. In a device of the character described, a body adapted to receive a pack of sheets, the sheets of the pack having downwardly facing shoulders in a stepped series, two elements, one a plate secured in the body, the'other a lifting member shiftable on the plate, parts on the member cooperable with the shoulders to lift the sheets when the member is raised, a slot in one element, and a pin on the other element cooperable with the slot to guide the lifting member.

15. In a device of the character described, a body adapted to receive a packof sheets, the sheets of the pack having downwardly facing shoulders in a stepped series, two elements, one a plate secured in the body, the other alifting member shiftable on the plate, parts on the member cooperable with the shoulders to lift the sheets when the member is raised, a slot in one element having a notch at one end, a pin on the other element operable in the slot to guide the lifting member and receivable in the notch to retain the member in its raised position, and means for eiecting relative lateral movement between the elements to bring the notch and the pin into cooperation when the lifting member reaches its raised position.

16. A device of the character described including a back member, an element shiftable vertically on the back member, a pack of papers, laterally projecting tabs on the papers, the lower edges of the tabs of adjacent papers being in stepped relation, parts on the element cooperable with the lower edges of the tabs during upward movement of the element to raise the papers and support the same, and a frame carried by the said parts and adapted to be engaged by the tabs of papers that are moved forwardly from the said parts to support the papers thus moved forwardly.

17. A device of the character described including a box structure having a bottom and spaced sides, spaced holders hinged to the bottom to be swingable between upwardly and rearwardly and upwardly and forwardly inclined positions, sheet lifting elements shiftable vertically on the holders, and downwardly and inwardly inclined parts on said sides for locating the sheets for engagement by the lifting elements when the sheets are dropped into the box structure between the holders.

18. A device for handling packs of sheets, the sheets of the packs having lateral tabs in stepped relation, the device including a container having a bottom and spaced sides, a plurality of plates, means hingedly mounting the lower ends of the plates at the bottom of the container so that the plates are spaced apart to provide compartments for the said packs and so that the plates may be swung forwardly and rearwardly, and a lifting means shiftable vertically on each plate and operable when its plate slopes upwardly and rearwardly to cooperate with the sheets of the pack in front of its plate to raise the sheets to elevated positions in stepped relation.

19. A device for handling packs of sheets, the sheets of the packs having lateral tabs in stepped relation, the device including a container having a bottom and spaced sides, a plurality of plates,

means hingedly mounting the lower ends of the plates at the bottom of the container so that the plates are spaced apart to provide compartments for the -said packs and so that the platesv may be swung forwardly and'rearwardly, a lifting means shiftable vertically on each plate and operable when its plate slopes upwardly and rearwardly to cooperate with the sheets of the pack in front of its plate 'to raise the sheets to elevated positions in stepped relation, and downwardly and inwardly inclined parts` on said sides engaged bythe lower corners of the sheets to center the sheets, the lower edge portion of the packs being confined and positioned by said parts and the lower portions of the adjacent plates.

HARRY A. WARDY. 

